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Odds Are #1
Despite the Odds
Never judge a book by its cover.
Michael Campbell can’t hold a job for more than a few days. He’s lucky his foreman is giving him another chance with the solar panel project at an elementary school in Atlantic City. When he spies a man walking strangely in front of the school, Michael laughs, assuming he’s drunk or high. Little does he realize that Joshua Stone, a teaching assistant, has cerebral palsy, and he’s having a bad muscle control day. Taking a tumble right in front of the handsome construction worker is just his luck.
When Michael learns the truth, he feels bad for his cruel behavior. He offers to give Joshua—and his tricycle, the Racing Rhonda—a lift. Joshua accepts the help, and suddenly there’s a gorgeous man breezing into his life, turning his world upside down. But Michael has more issues than his inability to hold down a job, and neither man is sure if they’ll be able to overcome their fears in order to be together.
Michael Campbell can’t hold a job for more than a few days. He’s lucky his foreman is giving him another chance with the solar panel project at an elementary school in Atlantic City. When he spies a man walking strangely in front of the school, Michael laughs, assuming he’s drunk or high. Little does he realize that Joshua Stone, a teaching assistant, has cerebral palsy, and he’s having a bad muscle control day. Taking a tumble right in front of the handsome construction worker is just his luck.
When Michael learns the truth, he feels bad for his cruel behavior. He offers to give Joshua—and his tricycle, the Racing Rhonda—a lift. Joshua accepts the help, and suddenly there’s a gorgeous man breezing into his life, turning his world upside down. But Michael has more issues than his inability to hold down a job, and neither man is sure if they’ll be able to overcome their fears in order to be together.
114 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 3, 2015
9 people are currently reading
266 people want to read
About the author
Chris T. Kat
26 books208 followersChris T. Kat lives in the middle of Europe, together with her husband of many years and their two children. She stumbled upon the M/M genre by luck and was swiftly drawn into it. She divides her time between work, her family—which includes chasing after escaping horses and lugging around huge instruments such as a harp—and writing. She enjoys a variety of genres, such as mystery/suspense, paranormal, and romance. If there's any spare time, she happily reads for hours, listens to audiobooks, or crafts.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
May 30, 2015
I took a chance on this book, even though this is a new-to-me-author.
Unfortunately, Despite the Odds is a rather flat story.
I love stories that feature disabled MCs. I like to read about imperfect people finding the happiness they deserve. The blurb drew me in, but the story in no way lived up to my expectations.
The beginning is promising, with cocky but scattered Michael laughing at a man he thinks is drunk. Michael feels like a heel when he finds out that the man, Joshua, isn't weaving because he's drunk but because he has cerebral palsy.
Michael slowly redeems himself, and he and Joshua begin hanging out as friends. Their friendship somehow transitions to a more romantic relationship. Sort of.
Let me be clear: There is NO sex in this book, save for one brief oral scene at the 90 percent mark. Yes, 90 percent.
Did I mention the book ENDS at 91 percent?
Neither MC feels complex or real. Michael's dyslexia and even Joshua's medical condition are at once too present and not present enough. There is almost no struggle to these two getting together.
I assume the men are in their early- to mid-20s, but they both act much younger. Michael is insecure because he thinks he's dumb. And Joshua is insecure because he believes himself to be a "cripple."
I didn't feel the chemistry or connection, and cringed every time Michael called Joshua "princess." The relationship struck me as childish and weirdly co-dependent.
Some page time is given to Joshua's friend Sarah and her issues, but those are brushed aside too.
The theme of hurt/comfort never felt fully developed, and the characters were one-dimensional and uninspiring.
There was a bit of sweetness, and I though the ending was a decent HEA, but apparently there is a sequel (read: angst) for these guys.
I won't be reading it.
Unfortunately, Despite the Odds is a rather flat story.
I love stories that feature disabled MCs. I like to read about imperfect people finding the happiness they deserve. The blurb drew me in, but the story in no way lived up to my expectations.
The beginning is promising, with cocky but scattered Michael laughing at a man he thinks is drunk. Michael feels like a heel when he finds out that the man, Joshua, isn't weaving because he's drunk but because he has cerebral palsy.
Michael slowly redeems himself, and he and Joshua begin hanging out as friends. Their friendship somehow transitions to a more romantic relationship. Sort of.
Let me be clear: There is NO sex in this book, save for one brief oral scene at the 90 percent mark. Yes, 90 percent.
Did I mention the book ENDS at 91 percent?
Neither MC feels complex or real. Michael's dyslexia and even Joshua's medical condition are at once too present and not present enough. There is almost no struggle to these two getting together.
I assume the men are in their early- to mid-20s, but they both act much younger. Michael is insecure because he thinks he's dumb. And Joshua is insecure because he believes himself to be a "cripple."
I didn't feel the chemistry or connection, and cringed every time Michael called Joshua "princess." The relationship struck me as childish and weirdly co-dependent.
Some page time is given to Joshua's friend Sarah and her issues, but those are brushed aside too.
The theme of hurt/comfort never felt fully developed, and the characters were one-dimensional and uninspiring.
There was a bit of sweetness, and I though the ending was a decent HEA, but apparently there is a sequel (read: angst) for these guys.
I won't be reading it.
February 8, 2020
4.25 When I first read of Michael Campbell, late for work because he overslept, again, after a hard night at the club, it seems as though uh-oh, this is going to be one of those hard to like MC. When he takes the opportunity to mock a man he sees stumbling down the street, yep, that thought was more firmly entrenched. When his co-worker, Henderson, gets incredibly angry about Michael’s actions, Michael has to step back and reconsider. The thing with Michael is, he doesn’t always think about what he’s saying. And sometimes he thinks things that are so patently ridiculous and offensive you want to slap him. “Could disabled people even be gay?”
The man in question is Joshua, a teacher’s assistant at the school where Michael is an electrician’s helper. Joshua has spastic cerebral palsy and some days are just bad days. My heart went out to him because things that we take for granted – opening the door with a key, getting things out of your pocket, those are big deals for Joshua. Being ridiculed for his difficultis, well, it’s not the first time it’s ever happened. Joshua’s day started bad, went worse and by the end he’s on the ground. Michael’s offer of help is awkward, yes, “No offense meant, but you really don’t look so great.” but it is an offer of help.
And as these two become friends, we get to see more of what makes Michael tick, his esteem issues and his secret but even better, we get to see how strong Joshua is, even with his own self esteem issues going on. First and foremost, they care about the others well-being and I liked that immensely. Joshua riding his bike to Michael’s to make sure he was okay was a great moment, wheezing and riding through humiliating comments. But Joshua getting a lesson in prejudging people outside that same apartment was even better, because it showed he’s just human.
It’s the progression of their relationship from friends to physical that gives Michael the chance to show his true worth, because Joshua has baggage and Michael has to deal.
I enjoyed this story very much, both the writing style which portrayed both men in a realistic light and the relationship between the two. I smiled my head off at the ending, because that summed up the story for me. Recommended.
The man in question is Joshua, a teacher’s assistant at the school where Michael is an electrician’s helper. Joshua has spastic cerebral palsy and some days are just bad days. My heart went out to him because things that we take for granted – opening the door with a key, getting things out of your pocket, those are big deals for Joshua. Being ridiculed for his difficultis, well, it’s not the first time it’s ever happened. Joshua’s day started bad, went worse and by the end he’s on the ground. Michael’s offer of help is awkward, yes, “No offense meant, but you really don’t look so great.” but it is an offer of help.
And as these two become friends, we get to see more of what makes Michael tick, his esteem issues and his secret but even better, we get to see how strong Joshua is, even with his own self esteem issues going on. First and foremost, they care about the others well-being and I liked that immensely. Joshua riding his bike to Michael’s to make sure he was okay was a great moment, wheezing and riding through humiliating comments. But Joshua getting a lesson in prejudging people outside that same apartment was even better, because it showed he’s just human.
It’s the progression of their relationship from friends to physical that gives Michael the chance to show his true worth, because Joshua has baggage and Michael has to deal.
I enjoyed this story very much, both the writing style which portrayed both men in a realistic light and the relationship between the two. I smiled my head off at the ending, because that summed up the story for me. Recommended.
June 3, 2015
Anybook that doesn't have your a-typical MC's is going to grab my interest. I love books that feature characters who are real, who have the same issues that many folks in this real big ol' world have to face. Don't get me wrong, reading is the best form of escapism there is, and I've read and enjoyed many books with 'perfect' hero's, but those books with real heroes are going to always be held nearest to my heart.
Especially when the MC who actually has the most difficulty isn't the one you think it's going to be.
Chris T. Kat, does a good job of showing that, while we as a world often focus on physical differences, it is oft times not those that can be most disabling for a person.That the unseen can be just as, or more, debilitating than the seen. Don't judge a book by it's cover is an old cliché, it doesn't make it any less true.
We meet Michael and Joshua and make the instant judgement that Joshua is the most debilitated of the two, and in many way he is. It doesn't stop him getting what he wants or needs though. It's not held him back from life. He is a determined character who refuses to be pities even when he does need help. And isn't it a sign of strength to ask for help when it's needed? We all need help at times for different things and (to use another cliché) pride often comes before a fall!
Michael is a prime example. On the outside he seems fine and dandy. Physically able, clearly able minded...yet he is the bull headed MC who is being held back by what he considers a disability. Sometimes I wanted to slap him! I have to admit, when we first meet him I'm not all that keen - especially the way he takes the piss out of Joshua when it's clearly a case of the pot calling the kettle black. Like him though, I made a snap judgement on a little fact. We all do, it's human nature, no matter how much we don't want to. And as Michael was proved wrong as the story went on, so was I.
Despite it sounding choc full of morality issues, this was really actually a quite light love story. The kind that brightens the day and makes you pleased to have read it. It could have gotten deeper and heavier but it isn't any less of a book because it doesn't. In many ways that was exactly why I liked it. It brought me two characters, who had issues but managed to navigate them while falling in love and at the end of the day the love story is what I love.
A really enjoyable read.
A copy of this book was given in exchange for an honest review.
Review previously at BMBR.
June 5, 2015
In a nutshell, Michael makes fun of (sort-of) Josh, but then finds out he has has Cerebral Palsy, makes up and they begin dating.
Michael is a sweet guy but has trouble keeping a job (for reasons we find out) and has a fairly low self-esteem but is generally laid back.
Josh really wants to trust Michael but he’s been burned before.
This is a book that could have been a touching and profound story to two men overcoming huge obstacles to be together, but instead was merely a sweet, fairly light-hearted romance.
The issues of Joshua’s disability as well as Michaels are mostly glossed over. The couple become a kind of non-sexual boyfriend then suddenly they move in together and HEA.
I still enjoyed reading this, it was short and sweet, but it felt very superficial and I was disappointed that we didn’t get to delve more deeply into these complex MCs. I was also rather disconcerted by how the sex was handled in that it went from zero to sixty and I think that taking some time to really move the couple through their emotions would have made their coming together more poignant.
I give it a 3.25 of 5 stars because the writing was nice, the editing was good and I loved the MCs.
Michael is a sweet guy but has trouble keeping a job (for reasons we find out) and has a fairly low self-esteem but is generally laid back.
Josh really wants to trust Michael but he’s been burned before.
This is a book that could have been a touching and profound story to two men overcoming huge obstacles to be together, but instead was merely a sweet, fairly light-hearted romance.
The issues of Joshua’s disability as well as Michaels are mostly glossed over. The couple become a kind of non-sexual boyfriend then suddenly they move in together and HEA.
I still enjoyed reading this, it was short and sweet, but it felt very superficial and I was disappointed that we didn’t get to delve more deeply into these complex MCs. I was also rather disconcerted by how the sex was handled in that it went from zero to sixty and I think that taking some time to really move the couple through their emotions would have made their coming together more poignant.
I give it a 3.25 of 5 stars because the writing was nice, the editing was good and I loved the MCs.
May 17, 2016
***Audiobook*** 3.5 stars... A sweet story about Joshua, who is physically disabled, and Michael, an electrician's assistant who has trouble holding down a job for more than a week at a time. I liked both MCs ability to look past the other's disabilities and see the real person underneath. It's a fairly short story which concludes in Against All Odds, which is not yet available in audiobook. Kind of wishing I had waited until both were released before listening. Oh well. Excellent narration by Joel Leslie.
October 29, 2016
1.5 stars rounded up because I did like the main characters.
This had the potential to be very good however it falls flat. Overlooking the formatting errors and the cliffhanger ending at 90%, it's just not fleshed out enough. SMH
This had the potential to be very good however it falls flat. Overlooking the formatting errors and the cliffhanger ending at 90%, it's just not fleshed out enough. SMH
September 5, 2015
Appearances can be deceiving, and in this story, both main characters start out by judging each other based on external factors and a few assumptions. Since both men are complex and multilayered, things do not go well at first. As they gradually get to know each other, driven by curiosity and a need not to give in to their worst fears, both are surprised with what they find. What I found most fascinating is that they don’t just learn about each other, but also about themselves in the process. The result is an interesting story with emotional depth and some great moments of hilarity as Michael and Joshua fall in love.
Michael is out to have fun. He isn’t very serious about much of anything, other than to get laid as often as he can, never with the same guy. He hasn’t held a job for more than a few days, and with no education or real job training to speak of, that makes his life very difficult. But then he meets Joshua. In typical Michael fashion he assumes Joshua is drunk and starts to laugh and make fun of him when he sees him stumbling along. After being told off by his colleague and getting to know Joshua, things change. Michael still says stupid thigs because he doesn’t think before he talks, and because he has no experience with disabled people. He has his foot in his mouth more than once, but he also sincerely tries to understand, and Joshua responds to that. Not that Michael thinks he stands a chance in the long run, after all, he is stupid and Joshua is an intelligent teacher’s assistant, right?
Joshua suffers from cerebral palsy and a few other things, and some days are just worse than others. His motor control isn’t good to begin with, and his speech slurs when he is nervous. Michael pisses him off at first, but his persistence and honesty, once Joshua recognizes it as such, go a long way toward helping Joshua relax. Not that he believes he stands a chance in the romance department – he thinks everyone sees him as a cripple and after one very bad experience with a man who also seemed interested in him, Joshua is very, very careful. Trusting Michael to be different, especially since Michael is such a hunk, is a very tall order for Joshua.
If you like books about men who struggle with their perceptions about themselves, if you want to know more about what it takes for both partners to fall in love when one of them struggles with a physical disability, and if you’re looking for a read that is as honest as it is emotional and touching, then you will probably like this novella. I think it’s a great story about two wonderfully flawed characters who truly deserve their happy end together.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Michael is out to have fun. He isn’t very serious about much of anything, other than to get laid as often as he can, never with the same guy. He hasn’t held a job for more than a few days, and with no education or real job training to speak of, that makes his life very difficult. But then he meets Joshua. In typical Michael fashion he assumes Joshua is drunk and starts to laugh and make fun of him when he sees him stumbling along. After being told off by his colleague and getting to know Joshua, things change. Michael still says stupid thigs because he doesn’t think before he talks, and because he has no experience with disabled people. He has his foot in his mouth more than once, but he also sincerely tries to understand, and Joshua responds to that. Not that Michael thinks he stands a chance in the long run, after all, he is stupid and Joshua is an intelligent teacher’s assistant, right?
Joshua suffers from cerebral palsy and a few other things, and some days are just worse than others. His motor control isn’t good to begin with, and his speech slurs when he is nervous. Michael pisses him off at first, but his persistence and honesty, once Joshua recognizes it as such, go a long way toward helping Joshua relax. Not that he believes he stands a chance in the romance department – he thinks everyone sees him as a cripple and after one very bad experience with a man who also seemed interested in him, Joshua is very, very careful. Trusting Michael to be different, especially since Michael is such a hunk, is a very tall order for Joshua.
If you like books about men who struggle with their perceptions about themselves, if you want to know more about what it takes for both partners to fall in love when one of them struggles with a physical disability, and if you’re looking for a read that is as honest as it is emotional and touching, then you will probably like this novella. I think it’s a great story about two wonderfully flawed characters who truly deserve their happy end together.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
July 25, 2017
This was a pretty good read and at times sad. Michael Campbell is working at a school when he sees a man walking funny he thinks he is drunk turns out he was wrong. Joshua Stone is a teaching assistant he has cerebral palsy and he’s having a bad muscle control day. Taking a tumble right in front of the handsome construction worker is just his luck. I wanted to slap Michael and I was glad when his co-worker made him see what he said was wrong I was glad. As these two become friends, we get to see more of what makes Michael tick, his esteem issues and his secret but even better, we get to see how strong Joshua is, even with his own self esteem issues going on. First and foremost, they care about the others well-being and I liked that immensely. Joshua riding his bike to Michael’s to make sure he was okay was a great moment, wheezing and riding through humiliating comments. But Joshua getting a lesson in prejudging people outside that same apartment was even better, because it showed he’s just human. This was my first time reading this author. This book was well written with no errors in grammar or spelling. This was the first book in a new series to me I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
August 8, 2019
More than expected
I was not sure how this would go. Many authors don’t do a credible job writing about characters with disabilities. The only complaint was this was such a short novella I would have liked a more in-depth back story on both characters and see how much further their character arcs would go.
I was not sure how this would go. Many authors don’t do a credible job writing about characters with disabilities. The only complaint was this was such a short novella I would have liked a more in-depth back story on both characters and see how much further their character arcs would go.
June 21, 2021
I enjoyed this. I liked the guys and their story. I'm reading more Chris T Kat now.
Merged review:
Comfort reread.
Merged review:
Comfort reread.
March 3, 2017
I had this story for a while but I'm not sure why it took me so long to read it. I really like it and can wait to have the time to read the next book in the series. Pretty solid novella.
June 3, 2015
wow...this book touched a few hot spots for me. i always love a feel good story with a disabled main character. this was no exception. i absolutely love to see when they find that one person that is able to look past whatever challenges they face and love them for who they are and help them work through those challenges. this book is a double whammy for that - both the main characters struggle through challenges and need help seeing that those challenges don't define them as people.
there were a couple of times that i was exasperated with the constant self loathing that each MC went through both internally and vocally. i thought 'ok enough already with that'; then something dawned on me. my mother suffered with multiple sclerosis when i was a kid. when she was first diagnosed, she used a walker - similar to mr. steel - and regularly lost the feeling in her left side which was rendered useless at that point. i can remember all the self loathing and self deprecation she went through for YEARS because of it. i also thought about my dyslexic son who is struggling through school because he has such a hard time reading and feels utterly and completely stupid at times. we have to constantly remind him that he isn't stupid and work with him every day so he can be successful and not feel worthless. once i remembered that, it shed a completely new light on these characters for me. while it may seem tiresome for them to continually self doubt and self loathe, that's real. these men really feel that way...probably every day.
michael was a complete jerk at first but quickly redeemed himself and became a super likeable guy. joshua's strength in fighting through his disability to work and find alternative methods of transportation and be as independent as possible was awe-inspiring. some folks may think that their relationship escalated too quickly but honestly when you've always thought that there would never be the possibility of a long term relationship for you when you find it, there is really no need to waste time with waiting. they fit together, they made each other stronger and feel loved. they were in a nut shell perfect for each other
the writing and the character development were good, even if some of the history was mentioned in passing. the secondary characters were equally good. i anxiously await the next chapter of their story.
there were a couple of times that i was exasperated with the constant self loathing that each MC went through both internally and vocally. i thought 'ok enough already with that'; then something dawned on me. my mother suffered with multiple sclerosis when i was a kid. when she was first diagnosed, she used a walker - similar to mr. steel - and regularly lost the feeling in her left side which was rendered useless at that point. i can remember all the self loathing and self deprecation she went through for YEARS because of it. i also thought about my dyslexic son who is struggling through school because he has such a hard time reading and feels utterly and completely stupid at times. we have to constantly remind him that he isn't stupid and work with him every day so he can be successful and not feel worthless. once i remembered that, it shed a completely new light on these characters for me. while it may seem tiresome for them to continually self doubt and self loathe, that's real. these men really feel that way...probably every day.
michael was a complete jerk at first but quickly redeemed himself and became a super likeable guy. joshua's strength in fighting through his disability to work and find alternative methods of transportation and be as independent as possible was awe-inspiring. some folks may think that their relationship escalated too quickly but honestly when you've always thought that there would never be the possibility of a long term relationship for you when you find it, there is really no need to waste time with waiting. they fit together, they made each other stronger and feel loved. they were in a nut shell perfect for each other
the writing and the character development were good, even if some of the history was mentioned in passing. the secondary characters were equally good. i anxiously await the next chapter of their story.
June 3, 2015
Original Blog Post: Happy Happy Release Day!!! Blog Tour, eARC Review, Excerpt & #Giveaway: Despite The Odds by Chris T. Kat
Review by: multitaskingmomma
My Rating: 5 of 5 Stars
The blurb says it all. "Never judge a book by its cover." Well, I judged Michael before reading further. I judged and got spanked for it.
Michael is a character I was prepared to look down on. Who wants an MC who cannot hold down a job? Who wants an MC who is so irresponsible, he cannot even keep time? I read for the sake of Joshua for again, I judged. I was ready for a pity read, knowing Joshua was a handicap. I wanted to find out why he would settle for someone like Michael and still come out with an HEA. Well, the author spanked me good. I was hooked on their story and discovered that indeed, we should never judge. Especially Michael.
The story is simple. It involves Michael, an electrician assistant who starts off the day trying to ignore time. He gets late, he is reprimanded, but still given the chance to make up for it because his foreman is a good man. He looks up, sees a swaying, gaiting man and laughs at him. He is not a likable man. When he finds out the man he was laughing at was the Teaching Assistant who is handicapped himself, he feels remorse and makes up for everything by making friends and helping out.
Then Michael got to know Joshua and found that despite his handicap, he was very intelligent and independent. He got to know the man beneath the gait and found that this was a man who had a whole lot of courage and potential. He fell in love with Joshua. But will Joshua still continue to love him, be his friend, once he finds out Michael's own secret?
This is when we discover the why behind the odd relationship that is Joshua and Michael.This is when we discover that maybe the man we were prepared to pity had more going for him than the man who appeared normal.
Incredibly written with a dash of romance. I am a new fan of the author and Chris T. Kat has just found a new fan. I highly recommend this book. And remember, don't judge. Read. And fall in love.
Review by: multitaskingmomma
My Rating: 5 of 5 Stars
The blurb says it all. "Never judge a book by its cover." Well, I judged Michael before reading further. I judged and got spanked for it.
Michael is a character I was prepared to look down on. Who wants an MC who cannot hold down a job? Who wants an MC who is so irresponsible, he cannot even keep time? I read for the sake of Joshua for again, I judged. I was ready for a pity read, knowing Joshua was a handicap. I wanted to find out why he would settle for someone like Michael and still come out with an HEA. Well, the author spanked me good. I was hooked on their story and discovered that indeed, we should never judge. Especially Michael.
The story is simple. It involves Michael, an electrician assistant who starts off the day trying to ignore time. He gets late, he is reprimanded, but still given the chance to make up for it because his foreman is a good man. He looks up, sees a swaying, gaiting man and laughs at him. He is not a likable man. When he finds out the man he was laughing at was the Teaching Assistant who is handicapped himself, he feels remorse and makes up for everything by making friends and helping out.
Then Michael got to know Joshua and found that despite his handicap, he was very intelligent and independent. He got to know the man beneath the gait and found that this was a man who had a whole lot of courage and potential. He fell in love with Joshua. But will Joshua still continue to love him, be his friend, once he finds out Michael's own secret?
This is when we discover the why behind the odd relationship that is Joshua and Michael.This is when we discover that maybe the man we were prepared to pity had more going for him than the man who appeared normal.
Incredibly written with a dash of romance. I am a new fan of the author and Chris T. Kat has just found a new fan. I highly recommend this book. And remember, don't judge. Read. And fall in love.
July 15, 2015
Michael often speaks before he thinks and one morning he mocks a man who is stumbling by his construction site. Assuming the man is drunk, Michael laughs and makes inappropriate remarks. His electrician partner is horrified at Michael’s callous disregard for the man’s plight and angrily lets Michael know this man has cerebral palsy and is a beloved, intelligent member of the community.
Joshua is regularly embarrassed when his body betrays him, and this is turning out to be a particularly bad day. Unable to continue his ride home on his three-wheel tricycle, Joshua accepts Michael’s apology and offer to take him home.
Thus begins a voyage of discovery between the two men, including the shared experience of being gay. Their backstories are full of family and friend experiences, good and bad, and add to the development of the current story. If you are looking for a book full of hot sex, you might look elsewhere. Yes, there is sex in this book and it is exciting and fulfilling for Michael and Joshua, but keep in mind that Joshua has led a sheltered life and what experiences he has had have not built his confidence in bed. Michael turns out to be gentle and understanding and puts his own needs aside to shape an emotional relationship with Joshua first. One of the funniest scenes involves Michael discovering Joshua in bed with…oh, I’ll let you find that particular passage yourself.
Ms. Kat gives the reader a spot on description of what it means to have cerebral palsy. While every person with this condition has different experiences with his or her body, the fact that it’s a physical impediment, not a mental one is critical. She also does a careful exploration of Michael’s secret disability, which is not revealed until late in the story. He is humiliated by it and has been taught that it makes him less of a man.
The end of the book is not a cliffhanger. There is definitely an HEA for Michael and Joshua, but there is obviously more to their stories and another book in the series will come out in a few months to let us see how they are doing as well as delve further into their backstories. I am certainly looking forward to that book as I enjoyed Despite the Odds so very much. I highly recommend this romance between two men with secrets and damage to overcome.
Joshua is regularly embarrassed when his body betrays him, and this is turning out to be a particularly bad day. Unable to continue his ride home on his three-wheel tricycle, Joshua accepts Michael’s apology and offer to take him home.
Thus begins a voyage of discovery between the two men, including the shared experience of being gay. Their backstories are full of family and friend experiences, good and bad, and add to the development of the current story. If you are looking for a book full of hot sex, you might look elsewhere. Yes, there is sex in this book and it is exciting and fulfilling for Michael and Joshua, but keep in mind that Joshua has led a sheltered life and what experiences he has had have not built his confidence in bed. Michael turns out to be gentle and understanding and puts his own needs aside to shape an emotional relationship with Joshua first. One of the funniest scenes involves Michael discovering Joshua in bed with…oh, I’ll let you find that particular passage yourself.
Ms. Kat gives the reader a spot on description of what it means to have cerebral palsy. While every person with this condition has different experiences with his or her body, the fact that it’s a physical impediment, not a mental one is critical. She also does a careful exploration of Michael’s secret disability, which is not revealed until late in the story. He is humiliated by it and has been taught that it makes him less of a man.
The end of the book is not a cliffhanger. There is definitely an HEA for Michael and Joshua, but there is obviously more to their stories and another book in the series will come out in a few months to let us see how they are doing as well as delve further into their backstories. I am certainly looking forward to that book as I enjoyed Despite the Odds so very much. I highly recommend this romance between two men with secrets and damage to overcome.
February 20, 2017
Yet another one that could have been so much more =( Because this is a novella series, I'm upping to four stars, but if a stand-alone, this is a three.
I'm starting to think that I'm just not a "novella" person. There isn't enough room to develop anything substantial, especially in this case when there's so little in common and so much that can be flushed out and appreciated
I'm starting to think that I'm just not a "novella" person. There isn't enough room to develop anything substantial, especially in this case when there's so little in common and so much that can be flushed out and appreciated
February 12, 2017
I actually enjoyed this cute story. I thought Joshua and Michael were sweet together.
June 4, 2015
First off , I have to say this is the first book I read by Chris T. Kat.
The story of Joshua and Michael is a really interesting one.
Joshua has cerebral palsy and his first encounter with Michael wasn't a pleasant situation. But Michael gets a second chance to win Joshua ' s friendship.
Their relationship is one plaque of insecurities due to Joshua ' s disability and Michael's feelings of inadequacy. They have to work together to create a balance and security of their love connection.
But also they need to learn how to be true to each other. There are secrets that need to come out.
Even though I have to admit this book is fairly easy to read and the dynamic changes overtime between them, I wanted to read more and have all my questions answered. But, yes .... there is another book coming. So now we wait.
Hopefully the next book will be out soon. Because I really like this one.
My rating 4.5 stars
The story of Joshua and Michael is a really interesting one.
Joshua has cerebral palsy and his first encounter with Michael wasn't a pleasant situation. But Michael gets a second chance to win Joshua ' s friendship.
Their relationship is one plaque of insecurities due to Joshua ' s disability and Michael's feelings of inadequacy. They have to work together to create a balance and security of their love connection.
But also they need to learn how to be true to each other. There are secrets that need to come out.
Even though I have to admit this book is fairly easy to read and the dynamic changes overtime between them, I wanted to read more and have all my questions answered. But, yes .... there is another book coming. So now we wait.
Hopefully the next book will be out soon. Because I really like this one.
My rating 4.5 stars
November 22, 2015
Despite The Odds by Chris T. Kat
A copy of this book was provided to me by Inked Rainbow Reads in exchange for an honest review.
****4 STARS****
Awwwww, this story was just too cute.
It's about Michael, who can't seem to wake up in time to keep a job, but he's trying. He also has trouble reading so he's fragile about that issue. One day he sees a guy walking funny and laughs, thinking that the guy is a drunk.
Well he's not. The guy he laughed at was Josh, and Josh has cerebral palsy. I may not have ever been in Josh's shoes, but I have patients with the same disability and I think they're so strong and awesome for pushing forward day to day, even if some people aren't so understanding.
Michael realizes his mistake and tries to get to know Josh better, and they fall in love. It happens fast, but sometimes you just want to read a happy ending for a mismatched couple who are perfect for each other. I see that there's a part 2 and I'll be reading that next. ^_^
A copy of this book was provided to me by Inked Rainbow Reads in exchange for an honest review.
****4 STARS****
Awwwww, this story was just too cute.
It's about Michael, who can't seem to wake up in time to keep a job, but he's trying. He also has trouble reading so he's fragile about that issue. One day he sees a guy walking funny and laughs, thinking that the guy is a drunk.
Well he's not. The guy he laughed at was Josh, and Josh has cerebral palsy. I may not have ever been in Josh's shoes, but I have patients with the same disability and I think they're so strong and awesome for pushing forward day to day, even if some people aren't so understanding.
Michael realizes his mistake and tries to get to know Josh better, and they fall in love. It happens fast, but sometimes you just want to read a happy ending for a mismatched couple who are perfect for each other. I see that there's a part 2 and I'll be reading that next. ^_^
February 11, 2016
Ehh, mixed feelings on this one.
I like the concept well enough, and it had interesting bones, but overall not enough to keep me reading the series.
The writing was just alright, and the relationship progression was way too fast. There needed to be more time for things to percolate and build, IMO. Especially given the background and pasts of both of the characters.
I also thought the illiterate plot twist felt too random. It seemed like the references to texting etc. kind of invalidated it. I get the author was also trying to surprise the reader with it, but it didn't seem consistently pulled through.
Not awful, and I did make it through the whole thing, but not something I'd really recommend, despite the fact that I really liked the bones and having disabled representation in the genre.
I like the concept well enough, and it had interesting bones, but overall not enough to keep me reading the series.
The writing was just alright, and the relationship progression was way too fast. There needed to be more time for things to percolate and build, IMO. Especially given the background and pasts of both of the characters.
I also thought the illiterate plot twist felt too random. It seemed like the references to texting etc. kind of invalidated it. I get the author was also trying to surprise the reader with it, but it didn't seem consistently pulled through.
Not awful, and I did make it through the whole thing, but not something I'd really recommend, despite the fact that I really liked the bones and having disabled representation in the genre.
August 16, 2016
I wasn't sure going into this, disability is always touchy. But I really liked this. I liked the flirting. I liked characters so much. I liked that Joshua's disability was a factor but he was still allowed to be human. He wasn't saintly or perfect. And Michael wasn't perfect either, his low self esteem lead to drinking and bad track record with jobs, but he's getting it together. My heart always breaks when people doubt themselves because they can't read. There's more to intelligence than that. You were failed, you're not a failure.
Read
October 5, 2024DNF @20%
Giggles & shivers & gasps & sobs. Oh my. These do not seem like real people. For example, I checked out when Michael reacts to Joshua calling his trike Racing Rhoda like it's the most hysterical thing he's ever heard:
Michael slapped his hand over his mouth to keep the laughter inside. Joshua's grin grew as he waved a hand at Michael. "Fine, get it out of your system."
Michael dropped the hand and guffawed until he had to bend over. When he stopped laughing, his belly hurt. "Racing Rhonda? Seriously?"
Giggles & shivers & gasps & sobs. Oh my. These do not seem like real people. For example, I checked out when Michael reacts to Joshua calling his trike Racing Rhoda like it's the most hysterical thing he's ever heard:
Michael slapped his hand over his mouth to keep the laughter inside. Joshua's grin grew as he waved a hand at Michael. "Fine, get it out of your system."
Michael dropped the hand and guffawed until he had to bend over. When he stopped laughing, his belly hurt. "Racing Rhonda? Seriously?"
November 14, 2016
Michael and Josh don't get off to a good start when Michael laughs when Josh falls over thinking he's drunk. In fact Josh has Hemiplegic CP and is not steady on his feet. The pair get to know each other as Michael works on the school where Josh is a TA. While Josh learns to trust Michael, Michael learns there is more to Josh than his disability. This was nice if a little bland
Dreamspinner Freebie - 26.11.15
Dreamspinner Freebie - 26.11.15
June 7, 2015
I loved the premise, but I didn't understand all of the MC's motivation. I think I would have liked to really watch Michael fall in love and discover that something beyond the physical could bring him to love. It happened a little quick, but I loved the idea. I liked the contrast between them, but it went a little fast for me.
June 8, 2015
Best Chris T. Kat book, ever! I don't know what it is, but I LOVED these two. SO freaking sweet! Can't wait for the next one!
June 14, 2015
So sweet and adorable!! Definitely a feel good read! I really didn't want this to end but looks like there's a second book I need to go stalk! Looooved these two ❤️
June 7, 2015
looking forward to the sequel!
August 2, 2015
Thought the story was a sweet one. Looking forward to the next installment.
April 3, 2017
Yes! I got to listen Despite the Odds in an audiobook edition, how cool was that! I'm really happy for this release. The main storyline was warm, positive and sweetly romantic. Joel Leslie done an amazing narration! Highly recommended warm series!
2015/June/4 - 4 star rating
I'm rather impressed with this first book in Chris T. Kat new series. I liked the storyline, how it developed and how it ended. I wish the second part was already out, because I want MORE.
2015/June/4 - 4 star rating
I'm rather impressed with this first book in Chris T. Kat new series. I liked the storyline, how it developed and how it ended. I wish the second part was already out, because I want MORE.
June 29, 2016
January 16, 2016 - Audible Edition:
Story - 3.5 stars
Performance - 4 stars
Overall - 3.5 stars
June 28, 2016:
Story - 3.5 stars
Performance - 4.5 stars
Overall - 4 stars
Story - 3.5 stars
Performance - 4 stars
Overall - 3.5 stars
June 28, 2016:
Story - 3.5 stars
Performance - 4.5 stars
Overall - 4 stars
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